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Gustavo A. Madero

The Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe is a significant Catholic church and pilgrimage site located in Mexico City. It is dedicated to the Virgin Mary in her invocation of Our Lady of Guadalupe and is situated at the foot of the Hill of Tepeyac in the Gustavo A. Madero borough. The basilica complex includes the Old Basilica, built in the 1700s, and the New Basilica, constructed in the 1970s. The New Basilica features a unique circular design with a tilted floor, symbolizing the hill where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared to Juan Diego. The basilica is open daily from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., and admission is free. Visitors can also explore the Museum of the Basilica of Guadalupe, which houses an important collection of New Spanish art and artifacts related to the Virgin of Guadalupe. The basilica is easily accessible by public transportation, including the Metro and bus lines. Taxis and Ubers are also available in the area.

Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City: A spiritual and cultural landmark 

Nestled in the vibrant district of Gustavo A. Madero in Mexico City, the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe stands as a beacon of faith, history, and culture. This sacred site draws millions annually, offering visitors an unforgettable experience that blends modern architecture with centuries-old traditions. Designed to honor the Virgin Mary, the Basilica is not just a pilgrimage destination but also a place where spiritual reflection meets cultural appreciation. Whether you're a devoted pilgrim, a curious traveler, or a lover of historical landmarks, the Basilica invites you to explore its rich stories and serene gardens.

Exploring the Basilica and its surroundings

The Basilica complex is expansive, encompassing the new basilica with its striking modern design and the historic old basilica that houses the original tilma of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Visitors often marvel at the contrast between the contemporary structure and the traditional religious art it protects. Surrounding the main buildings are several chapels and temples, each rich with its own history and architectural charm. The cobblestone paths and beautifully landscaped gardens create a peaceful atmosphere perfect for contemplation and photography.

Plan to spend at least three to four hours to fully appreciate everything the Basilica and its grounds have to offer. This allows time for prayer, exploration, and enjoying local vendors who sell flowers, souvenirs, and offer blessings throughout the day.

Visitor experiences and community sentiment

Reviews from visitors paint an overwhelmingly positive picture. Many praise the Basilica's spiritual ambiance and the powerful sense of history permeating the site. The Feast Day of Our Lady attracts vibrant crowds, highlighting the deep devotion of local pilgrims. While some find the modern basilica's architecture less harmonious with the surroundings, most appreciate the opportunity to witness cultural traditions and find moments of peace amid the bustling plaza. Accessibility is generally good, with some ramps available for wheelchair users, though visitors with vertigo should be cautious due to sloping steps in the old basilica.

A key pilgrimage site dedicated to the Virgin Mary, offering a profound spiritual experience.

A unique mix of modern design and historic chapels that reflect Mexico City's diverse heritage.

Paid parking is available underground; restrooms require a small fee and cash.

Frequently asked questions about the Basilica

What are the visiting hours of the Basilica? 

The Basilica is open daily from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

Is there an admission fee to visit the Basilica? 

Admission to the Basilica is free. However, there is a fee of 10 Mexican pesos to visit the Museum of the Basilica.

How can I get to the Basilica using public transportation? 

You can take Metro Line 6 to the 'La Villa Basilica' station, which is a few blocks from the Basilica. Alternatively, various city buses also serve the area.

Are there guided tours available at the Basilica? 

Yes, guided tours are available Monday through Saturday at 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM. It's recommended to reserve in advance.

Yes, the Basilica is wheelchair accessible, though some areas may have steep ramps.

North America

Mexico

La Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe es un lugar de culto y un símbolo cultural en la Ciudad de México. Este impresionante complejo no solo es un centro de fe, sino también un destino turístico que atrae a millones de visitantes cada año. Su historia se remonta al siglo XVI, cuando se dice que la Virgen de Guadalupe se apareció a Juan Diego. La arquitectura moderna de la nueva basílica contrasta con la antigua, creando un espacio que refleja tanto la tradición como la innovación. Este lugar sagrado es conocido por su atmósfera de paz y devoción, lo que lo convierte en un destino imperdible para los viajeros.

Visita la Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe

Aunque la Basílica no es un restaurante, la experiencia de visitar este lugar sagrado se complementa con la oferta gastronómica de los alrededores. Los visitantes pueden disfrutar de una variedad de platillos típicos mexicanos en los puestos de comida cercanos. Desde tacos al pastor hasta tamales, la comida callejera es una parte esencial de la experiencia cultural.

Algunas delicias que no te puedes perder incluyen:

Cada uno de estos platillos te ofrecerá un sabor auténtico de la cocina mexicana, haciendo que tu visita sea aún más memorable.

La Basílica también cuenta con varios vendedores que ofrecen flores y recuerdos, lo que permite a los visitantes llevarse un pedazo de esta experiencia espiritual.

Situada en Villa Gustavo A. Madero, la Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe es fácilmente accesible desde varios puntos de la Ciudad de México. Este vecindario es conocido por su rica historia y su vibrante cultura. A pocos pasos de la Basílica, los visitantes pueden explorar otros templos y capillas que complementan la experiencia espiritual.

Además, el área cuenta con hermosos jardines y plazas donde se pueden tomar fotografías memorables. La combinación de arquitectura histórica y naturaleza hace de este lugar un destino ideal para pasear y reflexionar.

Sí, hay un estacionamiento de pago disponible en el lugar.

¿Cuánto tiempo se recomienda para visitar?

Se recomienda dedicar entre 3 y 4 horas para explorar el complejo y disfrutar de la experiencia.

Sí, hay opciones de guías que pueden enriquecer tu visita.

La Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe es más que un lugar de culto; es una experiencia que toca el alma. Ya sea que busques un momento de reflexión, un lugar para admirar la arquitectura o simplemente disfrutar de la cultura mexicana, este sitio tiene algo que ofrecer a todos. No te pierdas la oportunidad de ser parte de esta rica tradición y espiritualidad.

Visita la Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe Hoy

Revered Catholic church & pilgrimage site housing a cloak with the image of the Virgin of Guadalupe.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmblktQ1BBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJxak0Kpz50YURsGoopfnqoCE/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmblktQ1BBEAE

The Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City is a spiritual and cultural jewel. Its modern design contrasts with traditional faith, and it's a key pilgrimage site. The shrine, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, exudes a powerful sense of history and devotion. My visit was an unforgettable experience!!! Highly recommend for anyone visiting the area.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYc3RDNERREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJxak0Kpz50YURsGoopfnqoCE/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYc3RDNERREAE

This is beautiful and peaceful.

This was my first visit to Mexico City, and I knew I couldn't miss this visit.  We went on a Saturday in October, around 11am.  It wasn't crowded, but a decent attendance.  There's several chapels and temples in it's surrounding.

Personally, I didn't really take an interest to the new basilica.  The design doesn't fit with it's surrounding architecture and lacks character.  However, that is where the original portrait of Our Lady of Guadalupe is housed.  The old basilica is a sight in itself, and from what I can tell, it appeared to be the most affected in regards to sinking.  The basilica has noticeable cracks and the steps are significantly slanted.  I would caution anyone with vertigo.  I was dizzy after only a few minutes inside.

The surrounding area has other great chapels and temples that you should definitely visit.  Each one has it's own history and the views are stunning.  The floor is cobblestone in some sections, and there's various areas that are popular for pictures with photographers on-site at an affordable price.

There's several vendors outdoors, and if you want to get anything blessed, they have several blessings throughout the day (located to the left side of the New Basilica, towards the back).

I am a fan of tours, but I don't know if I would take a tour here.  I feel like it may take away from the serene experience that you can only accomplish by being in your state of mind and appreciating and reading in silence.

If you need flowers, there's also several vendors as you get closer to the basilica -- all with affordable prices.  We spent roughly 2 hours, but I think we needed more time.  I think this can easily be 4 hours to tour everything on the grounds.  I will definitely visit again in the future.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2dU92TGJREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJxak0Kpz50YURsGoopfnqoCE/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2dU92TGJREAE

Beautiful Basilica! Went for the Feast Day of Our Lady and the crowds did not disappoint. It was shoulder to shoulder traffic to see the tilma. The plaza was alive with local pilgrims. I was surprised to not see too many foreigners.

There was a lot of trash outside initially from all those who had camped out, but there were crews of people cleaning up.

Our Lady of Guadalupe… Pray for us!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2eHE2cmRBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJxak0Kpz50YURsGoopfnqoCE/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2eHE2cmRBEAE

Great place to visit even if you’re not religious. Has amazing history and a beautiful garden. We heard there were 15 million visitors the week before our visit so I recommend planning in advance.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQck5TeERnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJxak0Kpz50YURsGoopfnqoCE/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQck5TeERnEAE

This is a huge compound. Allow several (three-four) hours to explore everywhere - and have the time to pray - and shop!
Pro-tip - there isn’t a free rest room. You must have pesos to enter/use the restroom AND pesos for toilet paper.
I would’ve easily missed the Virgin’s tilma, had it not been pointed out to me.
Some parts are very accessible to all - some are not.
Parking is underground.

Explore the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, CDMX

The Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe is a significant Catholic church and pilgrimage site located in Mexico City. It is dedicated to the Virgin Mary in her invocation of Our Lady of Guadalupe and is situated at the foot of the Hill of Tepeyac in the Gustavo A. Madero borough. The basilica complex includes the Old Basilica, built in the 1700s, and the New Basilica, constructed in the 1970s. The New Basilica features a unique circular design with a tilted floor, symbolizing the hill where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared to Juan Diego. The basilica is open daily from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., and admission is free. Visitors can also explore the Museum of the Basilica of Guadalupe, which houses an important collection of New Spanish art and artifacts related to the Virgin of Guadalupe. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basilica_of_Our_Lady_of_Guadalupe?utm_source=openai))

Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe history overview at tepeyac hill mexico city.

Nestled at the foot of Tepeyac Hill in Mexico City, the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe stands as a monumental Catholic pilgrimage site, rich in spiritual significance and historical depth. This sacred location honors the Virgin Mary under her revered title, Our Lady of Guadalupe, drawing millions of visitors annually from around the globe.

1531 marks a pivotal year in Mexican religious history, when the Virgin Mary is believed to have miraculously appeared to indigenous Juan Diego on Tepeyac Hill. 

This divine encounter inspired deep devotion, eventually leading to the establishment of the basilica complex that honors this sacred event.

construction milestones and architectural evolution

The initial phase of religious architecture began in 1695 with the construction of the Old Basilica. After 14 years of meticulous work, it opened to the public in 1709, serving as a focal point for worship and pilgrimage for centuries. In recognition of its spiritual and cultural significance, the Old Basilica was elevated to basilica status in 1904.

However, structural challenges due to sinking and wear prompted the need for modernization.

 Consequently, the 1970s saw the birth of a remarkable architectural project: the New Basilica. Construction commenced in 1974 and was completed swiftly by 1976, boasting a modern design that accommodates the millions of pilgrims who flock to this revered site each year.

enduring cultural and spiritual significance

Today, the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe is recognized as one of the most visited Catholic pilgrimage destinations worldwide. Its grounds include several chapels and historical temples, each telling a unique story and contributing to the site's vibrant spiritual atmosphere. Visitors come not only to admire its architectural contrasts—from the traditional Old Basilica to the contemporary New Basilica—but also to experience a profound sense of devotion and community.

 The Virgin Mary appears to Juan Diego on Tepeyac Hill.

 Construction and opening of the Old Basilica.

 Elevation of the Old Basilica to official basilica status.

 Construction and inauguration of the modern New Basilica.

Menu overview at Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe dining experience.

While the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe is primarily known for its spiritual significance and breathtaking architecture, visitors to the site can also delight in an array of thoughtfully curated food and drink offerings that complement the cultural experience.

Savor the authentic flavors of Mexico with starters that set the tone for a memorable meal. Favorites include fresh ceviche bursting with zesty citrus and tender seafood, as well as handmade tamales wrapped in corn husks, offering a taste of traditional culinary craft.

Main courses showcase the rich culinary heritage of Mexico City. Guests can indulge in succulent mole poblano, a complex sauce layering chili peppers and chocolate over tender poultry, or delight in grilled carne asada served with fresh tortillas and vibrant salsas. Vegetarian options are available, featuring seasonal vegetables seasoned with traditional spices.

End your meal on a sweet note with traditional desserts such as flan—a creamy caramel custard—or churros dusted with cinnamon sugar, perfect for sharing. The menu also features seasonal fruit platters that highlight local produce, offering a refreshing and light finish.

Quench your thirst with a selection of traditional beverages including freshly made aguas frescas such as hibiscus and tamarind, as well as Mexican hot chocolate rich with spices and velvety texture.

 - A seasonal celebration of the iconic mole sauce, paired with authentic sides to immerse you in a deep cultural flavor journey.

 - Handmade tamales using traditional recipes, perfect for a quick, authentic bite while exploring the basilica grounds.

Visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Ciudad de México, a stunning architectural marvel and a key pilgrimage site.

Visit Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, CDMX

Gustavo A. Madero Municipality

Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe

Exhibits showcasing religious art and artifacts related to the Virgin of Guadalupe.

Museum of the Basilica of Guadalupe

Guided tours available Monday to Saturday at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Donations are requested.

Guided Tours

basilica of our lady of guadalupe in mexico city, cdmx, mexico 

Nestled in the vibrant district of Gustavo A. Madero, the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe stands as a majestic beacon of faith and culture in Mexico City. This revered Catholic church is not only an architectural marvel with its modern design but also a spiritual sanctuary that draws millions of pilgrims annually, seeking to experience its profound history and devotion.

explore the sacred grounds and cultural treasures

Beyond its spiritual significance, the basilica complex offers visitors a remarkable journey through Mexican religious art and history. The adjacent Museum of the Basilica of Guadalupe invites you to discover an impressive collection of New Spanish paintings, sculptures, and sacred artifacts — all for an accessible entrance fee of just 10 MXN. Whether you're a history buff or an art enthusiast, this museum enriches your visit with a deep dive into Mexico's colonial heritage.

 are offered Monday through Saturday at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. These tours provide fascinating insights into the basilica’s origins, architectural nuances, and the story behind the Virgin of Guadalupe, making your visit both educational and inspiring.

The sprawling basilica grounds include several chapels and temples, each with its own unique history and stunning views. Cobblestone pathways and serene gardens create a peaceful atmosphere perfect for reflection or photography. Friendly vendors offer affordable flower bouquets and blessings throughout the day, adding to the rich cultural experience.

 – The site can be very busy, especially during religious feast days, so allocating 3–4 hours will let you explore at a relaxed pace.

 – While many areas are accessible, some parts involve steep or uneven steps, so visitors with vertigo should proceed with caution.

 – Paid underground parking is available for convenience.

 – Restrooms require a small fee in pesos and provide toilet paper, so come prepared.

why visit the basilica of our lady of guadalupe

Whether you are a devout pilgrim, a cultural traveler, or an admirer of historical architecture,

 the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe offers an unforgettable experience that blends spirituality, art, and tradition. Its powerful ambiance, combined with the rich stories and beautiful surroundings, makes it a must-visit destination when exploring Mexico City.

CDMX

Discover the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City, a must-see pilgrimage destination with rich history, stunning architecture, and cultural significance.

Visit Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in CDMX - Iconic Religious Site

Explore the rich history and spiritual atmosphere of the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, one of Mexico's most revered religious landmarks with guided tours and a museum.

Experience the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City

Learn about the history, architecture, and cultural importance of the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, a key religious and historical site in Mexico City.

Explore the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, CDMX

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